Bedford Police Increase Patrols at Shopping Areas During Holiday Season to Deter Crime

Members of the media interested in riding along with a Bedford Police officer this holiday season should call 617-993-0003.

BEDFORD — With the start of the 2019 holiday season, Chief Robert Bongiorno reports that the Bedford Police Department’s annual Operation P.A.C.E. (Pro-Active Community Enforcement) has begun, bringing increased marked police cruisers and a mix of uniformed and plainclothes officers to the town’s retail plazas in an effort to prevent crime and deter shoplifting.

Established in 2014, Operation P.A.C.E. works to curb retail theft, shoplifting, breaking and entering into motor vehicles, purse snatching, robbery, and traffic and parking related problems.

Multiple marked and unmarked cruisers will be regularly stationed at the plaza on Great Road near Shawsheen Road and the Bedford Marketplace at 160 Great Road, as well as other locations.

Several shoplifters have been arrested over the past six years thanks to the increased police patrols and quick response times of Bedford Police officers

Police officers also walk through the shopping centers, interacting in a friendly manner with residents and shoppers, with the goal of providing a level of comfort and security for everyone out and about this season.

“This is already shaping up to be a busy holiday shopping season, and we want residents and business owners to feel comfortable knowing that our officers are increasing patrols in the area,” Chief Bongiorno said. “Community members are encouraged to say hello to our officers and to let us know if they notice any suspicious activity.”

Residents who notice something suspicious, but do not see an officer in their immediate vicinity, should call the Bedford Police Department at 781-275-1212 to report it. Citizens can also submit tips through email at [email protected]. All those providing tips may remain anonymous if they choose to.

“As always, we wish all members of the community a safe and enjoyable holiday season,” Chief Bongiorno said.